PITTSBURGH, PA — The beloved former KDKA-TV host Jon Burnett has passed away at the age of 71. His death, announced by KDKA on Thursday, was attributed to complications from suspected chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), which emanated from his extensive history of playing football.
Burnett's battle with CTE, which cannot be definitively diagnosed until after death through brain examinations, was made public last year. At the time, he disclosed his struggles with memory loss and neurological issues, stemming from years of repeated head injuries sustained during his time as both a youth and collegiate football player.
Hailing from Knoxville, Tennessee, Burnett made his mark on Pittsburgh when he joined KDKA-TV on September 1982. He first caught the public's eye as the co-host of the "Evening Magazine" alongside Liz Miles, quickly becoming one of Pittsburgh’s most recognizable television personalities.
Throughout his nearly four decades at KDKA, Burnett's versatility led him to co-host “Pittsburgh 2 Day,” which is seen as the predecessor of the current “Pittsburgh Today Live.” He later cemented his role as KDKA’s weekend and afternoon weather forecaster - maintaining his connection with viewers even through his retirement in 2019.
Jon Burnett’s distinguished career was marked by numerous accolades; he was nominated for Pittsburgh's Man of the Year in Communications and received three Mid-Atlantic Emmy nominations during his tenure. His remarkable storytelling earned him the Golden Quill Award and the prestigious Emmy for Individual Achievement in Weathercasting.
His warmth and affable demeanor extended beyond the screen, as he became known for being generous and kind-hearted. KDKA shared their sentiments on social media, stating, "He was one of the most generous and kind-hearted people I ever had the pleasure to know," capturing the affection many felt for him.
Despite the challenges posed by his health, Burnett dedicated himself to raising awareness about CTE. He committed to participating in the National Sports Brain Bank at the University of Pittsburgh to aid research efforts aimed at combating this degenerative disease, which affects individuals with histories of repetitive head impacts.
This brave decision inspired many; according to KDKA, sign-up rates at the Brain Bank more than doubled following coverage of Burnett's story.
Friends, colleagues, and fans of Burnett have expressed their sorrow and fond memories since news of his passing. His legacy, built on hard work and connection with the Pittsburgh community, remains influential. Burnett shaped the media world and inspired other journalists to reflect the heart and soul of Pittsburgh.
From his early career, where he honed his skills at stations across Knoxville, Nashville, and Louisville, to his legendary reign at KDKA, Jon Burnett leaves behind not only numerous awards but also countless friendships and memories cherished by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
His contributions to media and the impact on the community will not soon be forgotten. A part of Burnett lives on through the viewers he touched and the legacy of kindness and professionalism he upheld throughout his esteemed career.